In a fresh case of arms looting, a mob broke into the police armoury and stole weapons including AK and 'Ghatak' series of assault rifles in Manipur. It seems there is no respite for the violence in the state as the weapons looting is increasing with incidents reported from several areas.
The recent incident took place at the battalion headquarters of the 2nd India Reserve Battalion (IRB) at Naranseina in Bishnupur district. Reportedly, over 19,000 bullets of various calibres were stole by the mob.
According to officials, an AK series assault rifle, three 'Ghatak' rifles, 195 self-loading rifles, five MP-5 guns, 16 9mm pistols, 25 bulletproof jackets, 21 carbines, 124 hand grenades were looted by the mob.
The incident happened when a large crowd had gathered in the area to take out a march towards Churachandpur where tribals were planning for a mass burial of those killed in the clashes that broke out on May 3, said officials.
"At about 9.45 hours. A large number armed miscreants individuals who came by some 40/45 light vehicles and on foot numbering around 500 overpowered the sentry of main gate and Quarter Guar," said the FIR registered.
Meanwhile, a police official was killed in Imphal West district.
Police official T. Rishi was shot in the head during the clashes with suspected militants, reported NDTV.
A fresh unrest broke out in the violence-hit state against the mass burial programme by the tribal. Many communities had opposed the move.
Around 25 people were injured in the fresh clashes that occurred in Kangvai and
Phougakchao areas in Bishnupur district on Thursday. The Army and the RAF personnel fired tear gas shells to stop the processions towards the burial site.
“It was violation of restrictions on gatherings,” said an official. The mass burial was stayed by the Manipur High Court on Thursday. The Kuki community claimed that they had postponed the programme after discussions with the Union Home Ministry.
Earlier too there were attempts to loot police armouries but it was foiled. Reportedly, around 4,000 weapons and lakhs of ammunition have been looted so far.
Chief Minister N. Biren Singh and Home Minister Amit Shah had appealed to the people to return the looted weapons.
The Supreme Court is currently hearing the petitions related to the Manipur violence. In its latest hearing, SC had summoned the state DGP for a personal appearance.
Over 160 people lost their lives and several hundred were injured since the clashes broke out in Manipur.